Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles recipe is a quick and flavorful low-carb meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender shrimp cooked in a garlic butter sauce are combined with light and fresh zucchini noodles, making a healthy and satisfying dish that comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or ghee for Whole30)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Zucchini Noodles
- 3 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for dairy-free)
Instructions
- Prep the zucchini noodles: Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles. Place them on a paper towel and lightly salt to draw out excess moisture. Let them sit while you prepare the shrimp to ensure they don’t become soggy during cooking.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the zucchini noodles: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet, then add the zucchini noodles. Toss frequently and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the noodles are tender but still firm, avoiding sogginess.
- Combine and serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the zucchini noodles, then add the lemon juice. Toss everything together to combine flavors evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and enjoy: Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or basil, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired for an extra savory note.
Notes
- Spiralize the zucchini fresh to prevent them from becoming too watery.
- Do not overcook the zucchini noodles to maintain a pleasant texture.
- Omit Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free or Whole30-compliant meal.
- For extra heat, increase crushed red pepper flakes as desired.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture of zucchini noodles and shrimp.
